Occurrence of cutaneous infections of Myxobolus episquamalis (Myxozoa:Myxobolidae) in sea mullet, Mugil cephalus L, in Australia.

OBJECTIVE

To report the occurrence of Myxobolus episquamalis in sea mullet, Mugil cephalus L, caught in estuaries in eastern and western Australia.

DESIGN

A prospective study of commercial catches of mullet in the Clarence River of NSW and individual cases from other areas.

RESULTS

The organism caused pale, white to pink, raised lesions on the scales and fins of sea mullet. Occurrence of infection was highest in spring and in a marine (down-river) environment compared to a brackish environment. Up to 6% of fish were affected in commercial catches.

CONCLUSION

The infection is widespread in Australian mullet, but rarely causes significant economic loss.